As he stated that this revelation has incited Indians’ indignation and reinforced the belief that the Congress cannot be trusted, Modi expressed his dismay at the reported actions of the Congress.
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New Delhi: On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi cited a media article to draw attention to fresh information indicating that the Congress party “callously” gave up the island of Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka. As he stated that this revelation has incited Indians’ indignation and reinforced the belief that the Congress cannot be trusted, Modi expressed his dismay at the reported actions of the Congress.
Criticism of Congress by Modi and BJP
Modi further criticised the Congress, alleging that the party’s actions over the years have consistently undermined India’s unity, integrity, and national interests. BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi echoed these sentiments, attributing the capture and imprisonment of Tamil Nadu fishermen by Sri Lanka to the decision made by the Congress government at the time.
India, Sri Lanka Agreement
Trivedi highlighted that the Katchatheevu island was under Indian control until 1975, with Tamil Nadu fishermen freely accessing it. However, an agreement signed between India and Sri Lanka during the tenure of the Indira Gandhi government restricted their access. The BJP sees this issue as a potential political advantage in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, particularly in Tamil Nadu, given the historical significance and emotional resonance of the matter.
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Lack of Response from DMK
Despite the sensitivity of the issue, Trivedi noted the absence of any significant response from the DMK or the Congress. He emphasised Modi’s commitment to addressing national concerns, contrasting it with the silence of opposition leaders. Trivedi also questioned Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s silence on the matter, urging him to acknowledge his party’s role in the decision regarding Katchatheevu.
Basis of the Report and Historical References
The report, based on a RTI reply received by Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai, sheds light on the 1974 decision by the Indira Gandhi government to transfer control of the territory in the Palk Strait to Sri Lanka. It also references statements by India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, indicating a willingness to relinquish claims on the island, a contentious issue in the India-Sri Lanka relationship.
BJP On Katchatheevu Issue
The BJP views the Katchatheevu issue as a strategic opportunity to engage with voters in Tamil Nadu and leverage the historical grievances related to Sri Lanka’s treatment of Tamil citizens.
The party aims to capitalise on this sentiment as it seeks to strengthen its political presence in the region ahead of the upcoming elections.
